Some agents join a team for the leads. Others for the culture. But a few step in on day one—not because of what already exists, but because they believe in what’s being built. Craig Costello was one of those people.
As a founding member of Lockstep Realty, Craig’s journey has been shaped by commitment, growth, and a shared vision. What began as a leap of faith has become a career rooted in trust, mentorship, and mastery—especially in the world of new construction. In this week’s REALTOR® Series, we’re sharing Craig’s story: how he’s grown with Lockstep, how eXp Realty has supported his evolution, and what he’s learned along the way. 
Why He Said Yes on Day One—and Never Looked Back
Craig joined Lockstep in 2020, back when the team could still fit around a single table. What drew him in wasn’t a polished playbook or a massive support staff—it was the belief in a team that did things differently.
“I’m a proud original member of Lockstep,” Craig says. “Coming from the background of a former athlete, I think ups and downs are always better with a team. You can celebrate the highs and get through the lows with support of the people that want to see you do well.”
That foundation of accountability and alignment has kept Craig grounded—even as the team expanded. “In 2020, when Alex asked me to join him and there were maybe 4 people total, I told him, ‘If you turn this into some huge team with tons of agents, I’m out!’” he laughs. “I’m really glad he’s not holding me to that—I wouldn’t trade this group for anything. Maybe except Dan Hubbard.”
Finding His Lane in New Construction
Craig didn’t set out to specialize in new construction—it found him. Through client needs, growing relationships with builders, and repetition, he realized he was developing a skillset that others could rely on.
“It was never an intention for new construction to be a focus of mine until I found myself involved in more and more of those situations,” he says. “Now, I’m using my experiences to help my clients as well as be a resource for our team with the connections and lessons I’ve learned along the way.”
New construction requires a different type of guidance—longer timelines, builder relationships, inspection nuances, and financing layers. Craig brings the calm and clarity that buyers (and teammates) need during the process.
What He’d Tell Day-One Craig
Like many agents, Craig started his career thinking hustle had to mean chaos. He picked up the phone at all hours, adjusted family plans on a dime, and let his day be dictated by whoever needed him next.
That worked—until it didn’t.
“When I first started, I felt like if the phone rang, I needed to answer it as I was running out the door,” he says. “That meant I was changing family plans last minute, always working on vacation, and overall letting the phone dictate my day. I’ve learned that setting expectations with clients and being a great communicator eases a lot of stress with feeling like you have to drop what you’re doing at the drop of a hat.”
Now, his business works for him—not the other way around. And his clients are still just as well-served.
A Moment That Confirmed He Was in the Right Place
Being part of something from the ground up comes with uncertainty. But it also comes with moments of clarity—where everything aligns and you realize you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be.
“I always feel like I’m in the right place,” Craig says. “Being around a group of people that might have different individual goals but are always there to support yours is great. Seeing what Alex talked about in 2020 be as big as it is now is awesome to see—and he’s earned it.”
It’s not just the growth—it’s the way the team has stayed true to its roots while evolving. That’s what keeps Craig invested.
Advice for Agents Who Want Staying Power
Craig’s been in the game long enough to know that flashy doesn’t last—but relationships do. His biggest piece of advice? Find someone who’s already walked the road and can give it to you straight.
“Latch on to someone that is willing to mentor you and offer advice and experiences,” he says. “That could be a team, individual agent, retired agent—whoever. When I first decided to be an agent, I called a couple trusted and successful agents and asked them to ‘give me what I need to hear, not what I want to hear.’ I think it’s important to know what the early years of a real estate career can look like before diving in, and a great mentor can really do that.”
It’s no surprise Craig now plays that role for others at Lockstep.
How Lockstep Realty and eXp Realty Support Agent Growth
Craig’s success isn’t just about talent—it’s about alignment. Lockstep Realty, brokered by eXp Realty, gives agents like Craig the platform to thrive, the team to grow with, and the support to stay grounded through all seasons.
Here’s how Lockstep helps agents build lasting careers:
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A leadership team that actually listens—and leads from the front
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Collaboration across all experience levels, from rookies to veterans
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Clear expectations and accountability without micromanagement
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Coaching around niches, systems, and lifestyle balance
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The national backing of eXp Realty’s tech, revenue share, and brand power
At Lockstep, you’re not just joining a team—you’re shaping a career.
FAQs About eXp Realty Agent Experiences
What makes Lockstep different from other eXp Realty teams?
Lockstep offers the structure and family-like culture of a close-knit team, with the scalability and freedom of eXp’s national platform.
How does eXp support long-term agents like Craig?
Through cloud-based tools, commission models with cap structures, and long-term wealth-building options like stock and revenue share.
Is Lockstep just for new agents?
Not at all. Experienced agents like Craig thrive here because of the collaboration, mentorship opportunities, and freedom to pursue their niche.
Can I specialize in something like new construction at Lockstep?
Yes. The team encourages agents to carve out their own lane—whether it’s new builds, investors, or high-volume resale.
How do I know if Lockstep is a good fit for me?
If you’re coachable, community-minded, and ready to show up consistently—we’re ready to talk.
Final Thoughts: Built to Last
Craig Costello didn’t just join Lockstep. He helped build it. From answering calls on vacation to setting boundaries and serving clients better, his journey is proof that you don’t need to be the loudest to lead.
You just need to show up. And keep showing up. Especially when you believe in what you’re building.
